The Minnesota Vikings must move on. At least for right now, Adrian Peterson is not returning to the team. The running back was handed a season-long suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy and will not be available for reinstatement until at least April of 2015. While Peterson attempts to appeal the suspension and salvage the season, the Vikings are moving on for the short-term and potentially the long-term as well.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport, Peterson and the NFL Players Association have officially filed an appeal fighting the season-long suspension. The NFLPA is arguing that the league did not act in a way consistent with the CBA's due process. If the appeal is not overturned, Peterson is out without pay until April 15 at the absolute earliest. If the suspension is overturned, the running back could play again in the league, but that is up to the Minnesota Vikings.
The team has already taken steps to replace Peterson for the short-term. On Wednesday, the Vikings announced the signing of Ben Tate who was claimed off waivers following his release from the Cleveland Browns. Tate originally signed a two-year agreement with the Browns in free agency, but was replaced by two rookie running backs and let go after he complained about a lack of playing time.
Tate now joins a backfield that consists of rookie Jerick McKinnon who has been getting the bulk of the workload. However, he is dealing with a lower back injury and did not practice on Wednesday. He currently leads the Vikings with 484 yards, but is only averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Matt Asiata is also getting plenty of work in as both a rusher and receiver. He is also banged up following a concussion. He is only averaging 3.3 yards per carry, but has six touchdowns on the year.
There is a real chance for Tate to take over the starting running back spot for the Vikings. He is healthy, something he already has over the two other running backs. The issue will be learning the new offense as quickly as possible. Tate has been struggling over the past two weeks. He only had two carries for -9 yards in the team's loss to the Texans.
Most NFL sources believe that Peterson is done with the Vikings regardless of what happens to his appeal. The question becomes where does he go either via trade or in free agency. According to LaDainian Tomlinson via the Dallas Morning News, Peterson to the Cowboys is a "no-brainer." The former NFL running back believes everything will come down to money.
"Here's the thing: at this time, I really think it all depends on the money," Tomlinson said, via the Dallas Morning News. "That's what it's all about. How much is Adrian Peterson going to demand if he comes to Dallas? Now remember, you still have to pay Dez Bryant. Tony Romo has already gotten paid. Tyron Smith has already gotten paid, the left tackle. So how much money is available for Adrian Peterson if he's able to come here? "
